Invacare TER Owners Manual - Page 18

SECTION 2-SAFE HANDLING Percentage of Weight Distribution ƽ WARNING DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat or pick them up from the floor by reaching down between your knees. The position of the footrest, camber tube, back angle, the tautness of the back upholstery as well as the user's condition are directly related to the wheelchair's stability. Any change to one or any combination of the five may cause the wheelchair to decrease in stability. Use EXTREME caution when using a new seating position. The addition of anti-tippers may be required. Center of Gravity Many activities require the wheelchair owner to reach, bend and transfer in and out of the wheelchair. These movements will cause a change to the normal balance, the center of gravity, and the weight distribution of the wheelchair. To determine and establish your particular safety limits, practice bending, reaching and transferring activities in several combinations in the presence of a qualified health‐care professional before attempting active use of wheelchair. Proper positioning is essential for your safety. When reaching, leaning, bending forward, it is important to use the front castors as a tool to maintain stability and balance. • Lengthening the wheelbase will increase the stability and maintain standard maneuverability of wheelchair. • Shortening the wheelbase will decrease the stability, increase the maneuverability and distribute additional weight onto the rear wheels. Unoccupied Lengthening the Wheelbase Occupied Rear of Wheelchair Shortening the Wheelbase Reaching, Leaning and Bending - Forward Position the front castors so that they are extended as far forward as possible and engage wheel locks. ƽ WARNING DO NOT attempt to reach objects if you have to move forward in the seat or pick them up from the floor by reaching down between your knees. Reaching, Leaning - Backwards ƽ WARNING DO NOT lean over the top of the back upholstery. This will change your center of gravity and may cause you to tip over. Everyday Series Wheelchairs/Sport Series Wheelchairs 18 Part No 1122172